Wood fence maintenance is a vital operation that should be completed routinely, especially after winter when your fence may have seen severe wear and tear. Regular care of your wood fence can help avoid damage caused by weather conditions, moisture, and wear and strain, which can undermine its structural integrity and overall beauty.
Hence, the team at Fencescape would like you to know what wood fence maintenance is needed after winter.
Examine The Fence
After the winter, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect your wood fence to look for any signs of damage or deterioration. Start by circumnavigating the fence and scanning for any obvious indicators of deterioration or weakness, such as:
- Inspect for boards that are loose or shaky and the screws or nails holding them in place.
- Check the wood for any splits or cracks that may have formed as a result of moisture exposure or the freezing and thawing cycles of the winter.
- Look for any indications of rot, which can be brought on by insects or moisture. To gauge the strength of the wood, prick it with a screwdriver or another pointed item. It can be rotting if it feels spongy or yields readily, the board isn’t good.
- Keep an eye out for any boards that have twisted or warped, which can leave holes in the fence or give it an unfinished appearance.
- Inspect the wood for any stains or discolouration that might point to the presence of mould or mildew.
Finding any problems that should be fixed and stopping them from escalating is an essential part of wood fence maintenance. In order to prevent future damage to the fence, it is crucial to remedy any damage or weaknesses as soon as possible.
Clean The Fence
Cleaning the fence entails getting rid of any grime, clutter, or stains that may have gathered on the wood throughout the winter. Here are some tips you can use:
- Using a broom or brush, start by clearing away any loose dirt and debris from the fence.
- Next, wet the fence with a garden hose or a power washer if you have one. Be sure to use a low-pressure setting to avoid harming the wood.
- Use a mild detergent and some water to remove any stains off the fence, such as bird droppings, mould, or mildew. A soft-bristled brush can also be used. Make sure to rinse the fence completely with water afterwards.
- You might need to use a specialized cleaner for harder stains. Read the directions carefully and test the cleaner on a tiny, inconspicuous section of the fence before using it to make sure the wood isn’t harmed.
- After cleaning the fence, give it time to completely dry before making any repairs or finishing it with a protective coat.
Regularly cleaning your fence will stop dirt and grime from accumulating and harming the wood. It also aids in maintaining the fence’s general appearance, making it appear more alluring and inviting.
Mend Any Damaged Boards Found
Another vital aspect of wood fence maintenance involves sustaining the structural integrity and general beauty of your wood fence by repairing or replacing any broken boards. Here are some actions to take:
- Determine any loose or damaged fence boards first. Cracks, splits, and warping is typical forms of damage.
- If the damage is small, you may be able to repair the board by sanding it down and filling any cracks or holes using wood filler. After the filler has set, sand it once more to make the surface smooth before painting or staining it to match the surrounding area.
- The board will need to be replaced if the damage is more serious or if it is entirely broken. To accomplish this, pull out any nails or screws that may be keeping the broken board in place.
- Cut a new board to size after taking a measurement of the length of the old board. To keep a uniform appearance, use the same kind of wood as the rest of the fence.
- Attach the new board by nailing or screwing it into place. To avoid rust and corrosion, choose hardware made of galvanized or stainless steel.
You can prevent future harm to your fence and maintain its general strength and durability by repairing or replacing damaged boards. It also contributes to the maintenance of your fence’s visual appeal, improving its appearance and boosting the general appearance of your property.
Check The Fence Posts’ Stability
Given that they support and stabilize the fence, checking the fence posts is an essential maintenance activity.
Examine the fence posts for any evidence of deterioration or wear, such as cracks, splits, or decay. Verify that the posts are still securely fixed in the earth. If any posts have shifted or become loose, they will need to be reset.
To reset a fence post, start by removing any dirt or debris from around the base of the post. To create a hole deep enough to support the post, dig around it using a post hole digger or a shovel. Put a new wooden post or a metal post support into the hole, and use a level to confirm it is straight. Pour concrete into the hole surrounding the post or post support after mixing it per the manufacturer’s directions. To achieve a firm hold, compress the concrete tightly around the post. Before reattaching the fence to the post, give the concrete time to totally dry out.
By examining the fence posts and resetting any that have become loose or damaged, you can help maintain the stability and lifespan of your fence. It won’t tip over or become unstable as a result, which could harm your property or present a safety risk.
Add A Protective Finish
Adding a protective coating to your wood fence can assist to prevent weathering, moisture damage, and other sorts of wear and tear.
Clean the fence well using a light detergent and water, and allow it to dry fully. Lightly sand the fence’s surface to get rid of any sharp edges or splinters. To avoid harm, make sure to put on safety gear while sanding, such as gloves and a mask.
Select a suitable protective treatment for your fence. Typical alternatives include paint, stain, or a clear sealer. Be sure the product you select is acceptable for the type of wood used in your fence and was made specifically for outdoor use. With a brush, roller, or sprayer, coat the fence with the finish.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and apply the finish in thin, even coats. Before adding additional coats, if required, let the initial coat completely dry. For the best protection, the majority of finishes call for two to three applications. Once the final coat has dried, inspect the fence to ensure that the finish has been applied uniformly and covers all portions of the fence.
By putting a protective finish to your wood fence, you may assist to prolong its lifespan and keep its look. Your personal preferences and the level of protection your fence needs will determine the sort of finish you select. A quality protective coating should offer enduring defence against deterioration brought on by moisture, weathering, and other factors, keeping your fence looking fantastic for many years to come.
Fencescape – Premium Quality Fence Installations
Wood fence maintenance after winter is crucial to keep your fence in good shape and ensure its longevity. By taking these precautions, you can lessen the likelihood that extreme weather, moisture, and general wear and tear can harm your fence. Moreover, regular maintenance can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, improve the safety and stability of your fence, and eventually increase the value of your home. Always remember that it is preferable to take preventive actions than to wait until damage has already occurred.
Please contact us if you need a good fence for your property. FenceScape is an Ottawa-Gatineau Fence company happy to service the Nation’s capital and its surrounding territories. Our considerable expertise and experience in all things fence-related mixed with our focus on customer service make us the best choice for your next fence job.
